Center for Global Ukrainian Studies to be Established in South Africa – ena Zelenska

The press service of the President of Ukraine reported this, as reported by Ukrinform.

During the visit of the First Lady of Ukraine Yena Zelenska to the Republic of South Africa, which was interrupted as a result of a large-scale missile strike by Russia on Ukraine on the night of April 24, a memorandum of cooperation was signed with Professor Francis Petersen, Rector of the University of Pretoria, regarding the establishment of a Center for Global Ukrainian Studies on the African continent.

“Research on Ukraine is not just about Ukraine itself – it touches on universal themes and values that intersect with the experiences of many nations: independence movements, the history of oppression, the struggle for dignity and the right to be oneself,” the First Lady noted.

Olena Zelenska emphasized the mutual benefits and enriching influence of the dialogue between Ukraine and the Republic of South Africa.

She noted that South Africa has a deep understanding of the transformation processes, historical challenges and ongoing efforts to restore freedom and equal human rights. At the same time, Ukraine is a shining example of democracy in war, steadfastly defending its freedom and independence.

According to the information from the Office of the President, the Global Coalition for Ukrainian Studies was created with the support of the First Lady Yena Zelenska as a joint initiative of the Ukrainian Institute, the Fund of the President of Ukraine for the Support of Education, Science and Sports, the Representative Office of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea/Office “Crimean Platform”, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The main goal is to support the development of Ukrainian studies, including Crimean Tatar, to ensure accurate and professional research of the history and culture of Ukraine, as well as the popularization of the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar languages and cultures.